Secure Medical Device Attachment System
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel system and method for securing medical devices to a patient's skin using a shape memory polymer membrane and clamp arrangement, enabling safe and reliable attachment during medical procedures.
Background and Problem Solved
The original dental dam patent, while effective for its intended purpose, has limitations in its applicability to other medical fields. The new inventive concept addresses the need for a secure and reliable method of attaching medical devices to a patient's skin during medical procedures, which is not adequately addressed by current solutions.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept comprises a shape memory polymer membrane having a plurality of locating portions, and a clamp arrangement formed of the shape memory polymer, engageable with the membrane and the patient's skin. The membrane and clamp arrangement work in tandem to provide a secure and adjustable attachment of the medical device to the patient's skin. The shape memory polymer properties enable the clamp arrangement to conform to the patient's skin, ensuring a comfortable and reliable attachment.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept's use of a shape memory polymer membrane and clamp arrangement to secure medical devices to a patient's skin is a novel and non-obvious application of the original dental dam technology. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the shape memory polymer material and clamp design to address the specific needs of medical device attachment, providing a secure and reliable solution not previously available.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include variations in the shape and size of the membrane and clamp arrangement, different materials or coatings for the shape memory polymer, or integration with other medical devices or systems. Additionally, the inventive concept could be adapted for use in other medical procedures or applications, such as wound care or surgical site management.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the medical device industry, particularly in the areas of patient safety, medical procedure efficiency, and device attachment reliability. The target market includes medical device manufacturers, hospitals, and healthcare providers, with potential applications in various medical specialties, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61C5/82 |
| A | A61 | A61C2201/007 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Medical Device Attachment and Fixation Technologies, specifically focusing on polymer-based medical securing systems with emphasis on shape memory materials and anatomical engagement mechanisms
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A biomedical engineer or medical device designer with expertise in polymer materials, medical attachment systems, and familiarity with shape memory polymers and their applications in medical contexts
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the dental dam's shape memory polymer clamp and membrane design represents a readily adaptable technology for broader medical device attachment applications. The core technical principles of anatomical conformity, secure engagement, and flexible material manipulation are directly transferable between dental and general medical device contexts. The PTD's variations represent predictable engineering extensions that leverage the inherent properties of the source patent's shape memory polymer technology.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,387 |
|---|---|
| Title | Dental dam and method of use |